State Rep. John Gillespie, R-Memphis, State Rep. Tom Leatherwood, R-Arlington, State Rep. Kevin Vaughan, R-Collierville, and State Rep. Mark White, R-Memphis, today announced more than $365,800 in state funding has been awarded to museums and historic sites in Shelby County for capital maintenance and improvement projects.
“Shelby County has a fascinating history that’s worth sharing,” the lawmakers said in a joint statement. “We thank these organizations for their dedication to preservation and for increasing community engagement. The work they do is vital, and we look forward to seeing the impact of these important projects.”
The grants have been made to the following organizations:
- The Children’s Museum of Memphis – $48,550
- Soulsville Foundation – $100,000
- National Ornamental Metal Museum – $23,251
- Memphis Museums, Inc. – $50,000
- Fire Department Museum of Memphis – $74,000
- Davies Manor Association – $70,000
The funds are part of a $5 million appropriation approved by the General Assembly for the Tennessee State Museum in the 2024-25 state budget. The competitive grants are administered by the Tennessee State Museum to museums and historic sites across the state for accessibility improvements, window and roof repairs and replacements, foundation work, and HVAC and electrical projects.
Eighty-three museums across 46 counties received a Capital Maintenance and Improvement Grant this year. Since the program’s inception in 2023, museums in 68 counties have been awarded funds to help preserve Tennessee’s history.
State Reps. John Gillespie of House District 97, Tom Leatherwood of House District 99, Kevin Vaughan of House District 95, and Mark White of House District 83 each represent part of Shelby County.
